What is a Configuration Item (CI) in the context of IT infrastructure?

A Configuration Item (CI) refers to any component or entity within an IT infrastructure that is managed and may impact the delivery of IT services. This could include hardware, software, documents, and any other necessary components that are essential for providing IT services effectively.

Identifying an item as a CI means that it is tracked and managed through processes such as change management, configuration management, and service management. Each CI has attributes such as ownership, version, and relationships with other CIs, which are vital for understanding and managing the IT environment.

By understanding what constitutes a CI, IT support professionals can ensure that changes are carefully assessed and documented, maintain visibility into the infrastructure, and improve overall service delivery and efficiency. This perspective is crucial for maintaining an organized and effective IT ecosystem.

Other options do not encapsulate the comprehensive nature of a CI. For instance, a database of incidents focuses on tracking issues or problems rather than the components that support services. An individual user report is specific to a single user's experience and does not represent a managed component. Lastly, a type of software application is too narrow of a focus, as a CI can be any component—software, hardware, or even documentation—that plays a role in delivering IT services.